Frequently Asked Questions
We're here to answer your questions.
Not sure whether you need to see a podiatrist, or feeling a little nervous about your first visit? You’re not alone. Here are some of the questions we’re asked most often.
Quite a lot! We treat a wide range of everyday foot problems, including corns, hard skin, thickened or fungal nails, verrucae, athlete’s foot, chilblains, heel pain and ingrowing toenails. We also provide diabetic foot care, routine nail cutting, orthotics and advice to help you keep your feet healthy and comfortable.
If you’re unsure whether we can help, just give us a call. There’s no such thing as a silly question when it comes to your feet.
No. You can contact us and book an appointment directly.
If you have any information from your GP or another healthcare professional that relates to your foot problem, you’re welcome to bring it with you, but it isn’t essential.
We’ll start with a friendly chat about your feet, your general health and any medication you’re taking. Your podiatrist will then take a proper look at your feet, explain what may be causing the problem and talk you through the most suitable treatment.
Where possible, treatment will begin during the same appointment. We’ll also give you practical advice about looking after your feet at home.
Definitely not. Feet need looking after at every age.
We see people of all ages, from children with verrucae to runners, dancers and people who spend long days on their feet. You don’t need to wait until something becomes very painful before asking for help.
Whether you’re 18 or 80, we’re here to help keep you moving comfortably.
Absolutely not. We see feet of all shapes, sizes and conditions every day. Whatever is worrying you, there’s a very good chance we’ve seen it before.
Please don’t let embarrassment stop you from getting help. Our clinic is a friendly, relaxed and completely judgement-free place.
Most routine treatments are gentle and should not be painful. In fact, many people feel much more comfortable as soon as their treatment is finished.
Some conditions can already be sore or sensitive, so we’ll always explain what we’re doing and check that you’re comfortable. If something feels uncomfortable, simply tell us.
Please bring a list of any medication you’re taking and let us know about any medical conditions, allergies or recent changes to your health.
If you’re visiting us because of foot, heel or walking pain, it can also be helpful to bring the shoes you wear most often, including any sports or work footwear.
Some conditions can already be sore or sensitive, so we’ll always explain what we’re doing and check that you’re comfortable. If something feels uncomfortable, simply tell us.
A standard appointment at Heels & Toes is around 30 minutes. This gives us time to listen to your concerns, assess your feet, provide treatment where appropriate and answer your questions.
Some specialist treatments or procedures may take longer, and we’ll explain this when you book.
It depends on the problem and on your feet. Some conditions may be sorted in one visit, while others need a little more time or ongoing care.
Your podiatrist will explain what they recommend after assessing you. We won’t suggest appointments you don’t need.
Yes. We offer routine toenail cutting and can also help with nails that are thick, hard to reach or uncomfortable.
This can be particularly helpful if you have reduced mobility, poor eyesight, diabetes or simply find cutting your own nails difficult.
Yes. Looking after your feet is especially important if you have diabetes, as changes to circulation or sensation can make it harder to notice injuries and infections.
We provide diabetic foot care and practical advice to help you look after your feet between appointments. If you notice a wound, sudden swelling, redness or a change in colour or temperature, seek medical advice promptly.
Yes. Verrucae and ingrowing toenails are particularly common in younger people, and active children and teenagers can experience foot or heel pain too.
We’ll explain everything in a calm, age-appropriate way and make sure they feel comfortable throughout their visit.
Yes. Foot pain isn’t something you simply have to put up with. We can assess what may be causing the discomfort and recommend suitable treatment, footwear advice, orthotics or insoles where appropriate.
It’s always better to have a niggle checked before it starts interfering with the activities you enjoy.
Yes. We have a car park at the clinic, and everything is on the ground floor and on one level. This makes access easier for anyone who has difficulty walking or getting around.
If you have any particular accessibility needs or would like some help when you arrive, please let us know when booking. Our friendly team will be happy to assist.
There is no real difference. Chiropodist is the older term that many people still recognise, while podiatrist is the modern name used for a qualified healthcare professional who specialises in feet and lower limbs.
The Heels & Toes team is fully qualified and registered with the Health and Care Professions Council, with more than 20 years’ combined experience.
Yes, home visits may be available where required. Please call us to talk through your circumstances and we’ll let you know how we can help.
Yes. We offer toenail surgery when an ingrowing toenail is causing ongoing pain, swelling or repeated infections and other treatments haven’t solved the problem.
You’ll have a full consultation first. We’ll explain the procedure, answer your questions and make sure it’s the right option for you. You can also read more on our toenail surgery page.
You can request an appointment through our website, call us on 01782 538 792 or email heelstoes@hotmail.co.uk
If you’re unsure which appointment you need, give us a call and our friendly team will point you in the right direction.
Still have a question?
Please get in touch. We’d much rather you ask than sit at home worrying about your feet. Call us on 01782 538 792 or send us a message and we’ll be happy to help.